NEWS, EVERYTHING ABOUT OUR MASTERY AND DRIVING COURSES

1. Presentation of Rodolphe Koentges and explanation of the concept (Film by seeing the 3 Suzuki at the back)

Since 1996 I have been running a driving school. During 25 years of circuit competition, I have also gained a lot of experience and won numerous races as well as 2 Championships in Belgium. Thanks to this DVD "Go For Safe Driving", I would like to share these experiences with you.

My goal is not to teach you how to drive fast but to allow you to make your route safer, more pleasant and also more economical.

I suggest you watch the entire DVD because my advice is one.

This will allow you to hit the road safely

After viewing it, don’t hesitate to give it to your loved ones and colleagues.

2. What you need to know and take into consideration for safe and economical driving

Above all, we must adopt a civic behavior because to drive is to communicate!

Our cars can reach speeds higher than those allowed.
Soundproofing and comfort can cause us to be distracted.

Each driver had a different learning via:
a driving instructor, a relative or a friend
and some even had their licenses without having taken any training.

So there are drivers of different experiences on our roads

• Young or old

• Nervous or passive
• Frank or fearful
• Rested or tired
• Sometimes some also drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs or drugs

All this day and night, weekdays and w-e.

So a piece of advice: on the public highway,
Watch and Anticipate and remember that "Priority does not mean security"!

3. The gaze technique

Have you ever noticed that vehicles will usually smash on trees or poles when there is room nearby.

Unfortunately, this is not always due to bad luck.

Indeed, the steering wheel largely follows our gaze.

It's the same when I want to take a pencil, I look at it and my hand goes to him to take it.

On the road, it's the same thing, if you look at the obstacle, you will go straight on ...

You should never fix an obstacle. Watch the way out to avoid it

It is therefore important to look far to analyze the situation and visualize your outcome. That doesn't necessarily always mean before you.

For example, when you are approaching a turn, first turn your head to find out the angle of the turn and the nature of the potential danger. You will often have to look out your window. Then turn your steering wheel.

4. Anticipate - act / react and adapt your speed according to the circumstances

Very often people tell me that they reacted well (continued) to a situation and that they were able to avoid the accident.

But in wanting to avoid this obstacle, they could have had an even more serious accident with an oncoming vehicle.

In most cases, we don't have room to avoid a dangerous situation.

ACTION must therefore be taken, that is to say, adapt your speed, watch, reflect and plan if necessary, an escape route in case, and then turn the steering wheel.

To drive safely, you must ACT and not REACT

5a. Checks before hitting the road

Avant de partir, vérifiez l’état général de votre véhicule.

The condition of the windshield and wipers,

Check engine oil, radiator and windshield washer water,

The validity date of your fire extinguisher and the emergency set

The presence of the triangle, and the fluorescent vest, that you are in good possession of the papers.

Check the condition of the tires and adjust the pressure.

Increase the pressure for long journeys according to the manufacturer's standards.

Also check the condition of the spare tire and its pressure.

Be able to change a wheel and locate where your tools are.

The service life on the side of the road is very short ...

If you go to the mountains in winter, mount winter tires and plan for good-sized chains, gloves, a scraper and anti-freeze washer.

For long journeys, plan ahead, take a bottle of water, food and a blanket with you in the event of a breakdown. 

5c Checks before setting off 

Correctly attach the packages in the passenger compartment, as well as the bikes, skis and box on the roof. 

Distribute the load as best as possible in the caravan or luggage trailer. 

Adjust the headlights and their inclination according to the loading of the car. 

Compare fuel prices via the website www.carbu.be

Find out about the laws of the countries you are going to cross and / or stay in and already fill out an amicable acknowledgment form with your contact details.

And finally, listen to the route information and plan an alternative route. 

6. Traction / propulsion?

Checked in 

What do we mean by traction, propulsion or 4X4? 

Traction is a vehicle whose engine power is transmitted to the front wheels. This vehicle will behave like a good father and will tend to understeer. That is to say, it will tend, in case of excessive speed, to pull straight in a corner. 

Propulsion is a vehicle whose engine power is transmitted to the rear wheels. This vehicle will have a more sporty character and will tend to survive. That is to say, it will tend in the case of excessive speed, from the rear in a turn.

It will also be more difficult to drive in rain, snow and ice. 

The term "rear wheel drive" therefore does not exist. 

If you are going to winter sports, it is important to know where your drive wheels are in order to mount your chains there… ..

All you have to do is find out or put your wheels on a muddy part and start. The spinning wheels will be your drive wheels. 

A 4X4 will distribute the power on the 4 wheels.

It will be safer in bad weather but will consume more. 

7a. The importance of the tire? Michelin

The only contact between the car and the ground is the tire. 

As you can see, the car sits on the equivalent of four postcards. 

The pressure must be correct and checked once a month.

An inflator is calibrated in bars: 1bar = 1kg

The tire should be cold. That is, a tire that has not driven more than 3 km at a reduced speed or that has not been driven for at least 2 hours.

The grooves are important because they allow water to drain out in the event of rain.

A new tire will have grooves 7 to 8 mm deep.

The law provides for grooves at least 1.6mm deep. 

If these conditions are not met, you risk aquaplaning and therefore the loss of control of your vehicle. 

1 turn = X evacuation lites 

Adjust the pressure according to the manufacturer's standards, depending on whether you are loaded and the type of trip you are going to make.

Correct pressure will give safety, comfort, less wear and normal fuel consumption. 

7b. The importance of the tire? Michelin

An underpressure of 0.5 bar, therefore half a kilo, can shorten the life of tires by 20% and increase your consumption. 

Indeed, when the tire is under-inflated, the contact surface with the ground is greater, friction is also higher, so the tire heats up more. 

The tires of your caravan or luggage trailer must also be inflated accordingly

(Pressure of +/- 3.5 bar)

For your safety, go to a tire dealer who will be at your service to advise you the best. He will be able to check if your vehicle requires geometry and will inflate your tires with a more precise pressure gauge than the one you will find at service stations. 

Depending on the season, it is best to equip your vehicle with summer or winter tires.

It is imperative to mount 4 tires of the same type. 

Mr. Per De Vries (Product Marketing Manager, Cars, 4X4 & Vans of Michelin Belux),

Explain the difference between these two types of tires. 

8. How do I get into my car? 2008

To get into your car safely, it is important, and even essential, to go around it when facing traffic. 

Likewise, it is strongly advised to meet the gaze of the driver who arrives in front, in order to establish eye contact and make sure that the person behind the wheel has seen you ... 

Go around facing traffic

Look at the eyes of the drivers coming towards us 

9a. Driving position and seat belt?

You have to be one with your vehicle.

Take off any bulky clothing, including your jacket. 

Your back should be in good contact with the seat back.

Your arms should be bent (not stretched or too bent) 

The left foot should be practically stretched when it fully depresses the clutch pedal, but it is imperative to have the heel of the right foot well stable on the ground for a precise dosage of braking and acceleration. 

9b. Driving position and seat belt?

Hands should be on the steering wheel without grabbing, thumbs on the steering wheel

• Adjust the headrest.
• Adjust the 3 mirrors
• Remove what can disturb
• And above all, don't forget your seatbelt, as well as that of your passengers.

For a good feeling and not to wear out your clutch unnecessarily, put your left foot on the footrest or the undertray. 

Pressing the clutch pedal says "disengage" and releasing the pedal says "clutch".

In the case of an automatic gearbox, the left foot will always remain on the footrest. 

10. How to turn your steering wheel? 2008

The correct position of the hands on the steering wheel is the equivalent of 09h / quarter or 10h / 10.

This is for example the natural position when you are relaxed to read a book.

The steering wheel should be split in half vertically.

My right hand should flow in the right part and my left hand in the left part.

Never cross your arms or hands.

To be precise in a turn, your body must go in the direction of the wheels,

That is to say you have to push the steering wheel from the bottom up

(raise the arms and show that the body is going in the direction of the wheels)

This will give you security, comfort, and flexibility.

Leaving the corner, your steering wheel will return to its original position on its own as you accelerate 

Film that the steering wheel returns to the right position with the throttle.

So no need to bring back the steering wheel!

Film an avoidance in slalom 

11. How to park

It is advisable to park in reverse. 

When you leave your seat, it is possible to get on the road with maximum security, without risking being hit by performing a less secure reverse gear. 

It is also advisable to carry out any maneuver with a hot engine. 

Backwards : 

• to go out with greater security (sight and possibility of seeing traffic)
• maneuver with a hot engine

11 How to park 29 04 10 

First of all, it is advisable to carry out any maneuver with a hot engine. 

If you don't have to load or unload items from your trunk, park in reverse. 

In this way, it is possible to climb on the roadway with more security and you limit the risks of being hit during your reverse. 

Indeed, this allows you to leave your location by performing your maneuver more easily and to see the vehicles driving in your direction.

Otherwise, the rear passengers will be the first exposed to danger ... 

12. How to go up and down speed?

IN ECO section 

13a. The brakes?

When you apply pressure on the brake pedal, the braking system acts on the 4 wheels.

The handbrake, on the other hand, works in most cases only on the rear wheels. 

If the car is loaded, or if you are towing a trailer or caravan, the braking distance will be greater. 

Be aware that on dry ground, with a well maintained vehicle, and proper attention, you will need to stop 

• 27m at 50 km / h
• 43m at 70 km / h
• 64m at 90 km / h
• 102m at 120 km / h, the equivalent of a football field
• IBSR figures

13b. The brakes?

Braking distance (film 2 cars following each other with and without abs) 

When stopped, for example in front of a red light, continue to apply your brake pedal. Your stop lights will thus be on and will signal to the users following you that you have been stopped. 

14. ABS? Anti-lock Braking System

How does ABS work? 

There is one sensor per wheel. This will detect a possible locking of the wheels.

Even if you press the brake pedal, the ABS will release the pressure to prevent the wheels from locking up.

This will allow the wheels to turn in the desired direction.

Despite the tremors and the noise of your brake pedal, never release the pressure on this pedal. 

A tire in good condition will allow you to gain braking distance and stability. 

If your ABS starts to operate, it means that you have exceeded the grip limits of your vehicle. And that you did not anticipate this situation.

Adopt the required safety distances and think your eyes will be the best ABS you can have. 

15. Driving aids (ESP)?

What is the ESP: Electronic Stability Program

If a vehicle takes a turn at too high a speed, it may lose its stability and escape the driver's control.

ESP allows the trajectory to be corrected by acting on the braking system as well as on the engine torque. 

• This phenomenon is detected by sensors which can check, 25 times per second, the speed of rotation of the wheels, the angle of the steering wheel and the transverse acceleration.
• These phenomena are detected by sensors: rotation speeds of the wheels at the level of the running gear, angle of the steering wheel at the level of the direction, yaw speed (rotation of the vehicle relative to the vertical axis) and transverse acceleration.
• These sensors check (25 times per second) and analyze whether the actual trajectory followed by the vehicle is indeed that desired by the driver. So if an abnormal situation occurs, the trajectory can be corrected by targeted braking on the appropriate wheel.

If the system turns on, it means that you have exceeded the limits of grip. 

15b. Driving aids (ESP and ASR)

The ESP indicator light on means that it is off.

If it is flashing, it is in action. 

If your vehicle is equipped with ESP, it automatically has the active safety system, ABS and ASR. 

ASR stands for antiskid regulation

It is a system that prevents the wheels from slipping when starting or accelerating. It can act on the braking system, on gases and ignition. 

System linked to the anti-lock braking system, which prevents the drive wheels from slipping during acceleration, either by acting on the anti-lock braking system when only one wheel is slipping, or by intervening in the closing of the throttle valve, on the ignition and / or on injection when both wheels are spinning. 

In most cases, the ASR can be disconnected, to allow you to climb a very icy hill. 

The main purpose of these driver aids is to give the driver time and space to react. 

• Explain the differential with spinning wheel (???)

15c. Driving aids (ESP etc)? Electronic Stability Program

In most cases, the ASR may be disconnected, but in this case, you will cut the help to climb an icy hill, for example. 

The main purpose of these driver aids is to give the driver time and space to react. 

16. How to pass a speed break?

• Gas technology
• Shock absorbers

17. How to take a turn?

• Explanation of gas correction and with the steering wheel (gas in roundabout)
• The basic principle is to come into a turn slowly and get out of it quickly.
• In all these phases, the shock absorbers also play a very important role
• When approaching a turn, turn your head toward the exit to find out the angle of the turn and the nature of the danger. Adopt a speed appropriate to the situation.
• In order not to unbalance the car, brake while keeping the wheels straight and downshift to find yourself on the right gear.
• It is imperative to put your left foot on the footrest and stick your back in the seat back to "feel" your vehicle.
• Your hands should be at 9:15 am in the middle of the curve so that you are in your "relaxed" position and able to correct any slip.

17b. How to take a turn?

• Put a thread of gas to accelerate as and when possible circumstances that you will meet in and out of the turn.
• Give gas and see the steering wheel come back
• Film a chicane passage and roundabout
• Film around the corner of Woluwe and watch the light poles

18. Visualize and adapt

• It is essential to be able to read the road well, and thus identify lines and pedestrian crossings, the presence of ice, a hole in the road (due to salt), puddles etc ...
• Even during the day, it is advisable to drive with the headlights on
• Also be sure to make eye contact with pedestrians and other drivers during an overtaking maneuver.
• Keep a safe distance at all times
• Try to make eye contact via the driver's mirror in front of you
• (Look at the truck reviews for eye contact)

 19. Getting on and off the highway

When getting on or off the highway, use the launch pad to accelerate, or the deceleration band to slow down.

Put on your turn signals, and don't fall back in front of another driver.

It’s important to always manage your speed according to the circumstances, take a look in the rearview mirror, and even turn your head quickly to make sure there’s no vehicle in your blind spot.

Also be careful not to roll unnecessarily on the center strip.

20. Difficult weather conditions

In the event of aquaplaning or loss of grip on ice, do not brake. Release the throttle and disengage, that is, depress the clutch pedal.

In the case of an "automatic" car, put yourself in the neutral position.

Look far and head abruptly towards the exit. As soon as the danger zone has passed, engage the clutch, that is, release the clutch pedal and accelerate or put you back in Drive in the case of automatic

In winter, to improve the handling of your vehicle, your starting conditions and limit the risks of skidding, mount winter tires 

• The rubber of these tires remains flexible below -7 °
• Also turn on the fog lights as soon as the need arises.

21a. Especially not to do

While driving, certain actions are prescribed, under penalty of putting yourself in danger, but also compromising the safety of others.

Are therefore prohibited improvised make-up sessions, driving with high heels, sending messages using your mobile phone, fox tail or DVD hanging on the central rear view mirror, using a mobile phone, and much more sure reading the newspaper… A word to the wise… 

21b. Especially not to do

Other gestures should be avoided while driving your car. It is therefore unnecessary to keep your foot on the clutch or your hand on the gear lever. Driving with arms outstretched is not reassuring, or getting upset with other drivers, or being distracted. It is also unwise to park in double file, or on a street corner…

Moms will be careful not to pay too much attention to their baby, who can easily be placed in the front seat, thanks to the ISOFIX fastening system.

Also be aware that curiosity is a bad adviser, watch an accident that can cause queues, or even other accidents. 

21c. Especially not to do

If this should happen to you, make sure to clear your vehicle as quickly as possible to make traffic smoother.

Finally, avoid taking your eyes off the road in the event of an object falling into your car ... 

• Turn around to watch your baby (put in the front seat with Isofix?)
• Look at an accident in the face and therefore cause queues
• In the event of a collision, clear as quickly as possible to make traffic flow
• Take your eyes off the road (sandwich falling on the ground) 

22. Various councils (IBSR)

Interview OK 

Safety belt, life jacket, triangle, braking distance, blood alcohol level, driving license, baby seat,

Headlights on?

Carrefour: turned wheels? (IBSR opinion)

Tire groove depth 1.6? 

We need to: 

• 50 km / h = 27m
• 70 km / h = 44m
• 90 km / h = 66m
• 120 km / h = 105m
• 140 km / h = 137m
• IBSR figures

23. First aid in case of accident (firefighter)

• Interview ok
• First aid

24a. The ECODRIVING technique

The latest generation cars use less and less fuel. As soon as you let go of the gas pedal, you shut off the fuel to the engine. So you ride "for free". 

By following the basic rules of Ecodriving ... It is still possible to reduce your consumption considerably 

To reach your cruising speed and drive on the inertia of your car, start and go up in speed quickly by changing the ratios to 2500 rpm for diesel engines, and 3000 rpm for petrol engines. 

24b. The ECODRIVING technique

Put into practice the gaze technique previously seen to anticipate and adapt the power. 

Slow down by simply letting go of the gas pedal and using the engine brake, so you'll also be driving for free.

If necessary, stop using your brake pedal. 

Set your on-board computer to instant consumption to help you understand the level and evolution of your consumption. 

New generation vehicles can consume between 0.5 to 0.8 l / h, when the engine is stopped, this is called "steady state". 

24c. The ECODRIVING technique

If your vehicle does not have the “Start-Stop” system, you have to stop for more than 5 seconds, and you do not risk anything, you can turn off your engine. You should know that starting the engine is equivalent to 3 seconds of steady speed ...

Then immediately switch on the ignition so that your accessories and lights remain powered. Be attentive and ready to start if necessary. 

On a descent, never let yourself slide into neutral, as you put yourself in danger. You will drive "without socket", therefore without engine brake, and you will be "stationary" again. 

24d. The ECODRIVING technique

Be quick without being brutal when changing gears, because every time you press the clutch pedal, you will find yourself in steady state. 

Modern engines should no longer heat up, you can start immediately, but calmly, and without giving repeated heavy gas blows… 

When your right foot is no longer depressing the gas pedal, he can stay in front of the brake pedal to be ready if necessary. This is called having a preventive attitude. 

24e. The ECODRIVING technique

Adopt a fluid driving style. For example, pushing your car toward the pump will be easier with the wheels straight than steered. (???)

(There is even a way to drive in 5th gear at 50 km / h) 

In town and on the highway, if traffic permits, you can use your cruise control, called Cruise Control.

It will calculate your consumption as well as possible, give you real driving comfort and force you to be attentive. 

Beware of energy consumers such as air conditioning, accessories including the cigarette lighter, as well as air heaters such as the box and bikes on the roof. 

24f. The ECODRIVING technique

During your next purchase, choose as far as possible an “eco” car by checking its technical data.

This will allow you to benefit from possible reductions, but also to enjoy acceptable consumption. 

Buying this type of vehicle is beneficial for the environment and for your wallet, provided, of course, that you adopt the "Ecodriving" driving technique

You will find that it is fun and that you can even save time on your route while respecting the speed limits. 

24g. The ECODRIVING technique

You will also find Michelin “Eco” tires called Energy Saver at your specialist dealer. 

Always think about your safety before thinking about Ecodriving 

Young drivers will also have to find out from insurers to buy a vehicle that is appropriate for their situation. (nothing to do there!)

Film the dashboard to see instant consumption

First prioritize security 

27. To do

Be fair play behind the wheel: 

Thank when you cross or when you are let through a narrowing roadway ...

Always look if it is a transit, European, foreign plate,

Be tolerant of driving schools or licensed drivers (L)

Let a person maneuver without complaining

Test yourself, with friends, via questions and answers on traffic regulations

Respect the highway code even if others do not respect it and stress you out

Respect weak users (pedestrians, bikes) 

28a. Damper

The role of the shock absorber is to keep the wheel in contact with the ground, to control the oscillation of the springs and to improve driving comfort. 

If you drive with worn shock absorbers at 50%, at 80km / h, you will increase the braking distance by 2.6m!

In case of aquaplaning on wet ground, the braking distance will also increase ...

When driving at night, the headlights will oscillate. 

The shock absorber is part, with the brake and the tire, of the safety triangle: 

Suppose you are driving on a bumpy road with bad shock absorbers, the wheels fitted with your new tires will not hit the ground and your new brakes will brake in a vacuum. From that moment, you no longer have control of your vehicle. 

28b. Damper

As you will have understood, the role of shock absorbers is therefore very important for your safety. 

The shock absorbers should be checked every 20,000 km and ideally replaced every 70,000 km. 

In conclusion, good shock absorbers will offer you: 

• a stable, controllable vehicle, increased visibility during night driving
• less wear on your tires
• reduced stress and fatigue

29. Carrefour / Rond Point

Checked in 

• Put your turn signal to show your intention
• Look at the eyes of other drivers but also pedestrians and or bikes!
• Do not engage and stop in the middle and block everything or prevent someone from turning
• Beware of the bus and bike path

30. Mastery on slippery ground

On the public highway, you are not entitled to a second chance! 

In traffic, you don't have the space to avoid an obstacle like a child, because the trees, poles and pedestrians on the sidewalk are never far away ...

On a master’s track, you’ll be aware of the influence of speed. You can safely exceed the limits of grip. 

You’ll have the space to stop, even if you might panic. 

You will understand more that it is necessary to adopt our advice. 

You can also test the safety and comfort of a winter tire.

Michelin winter tire 

Final 

Are you a young driver or a senior? 

Student or company director? 

I am sure you have benefited from this advice. 

Whatever happens, they are a good introduction to the training that I am pleased to offer to all motorists. 

Whether in daily traffic or on a master's track, I put my experience at your disposal ... 

Your safety… and that of others! 

I wish you a safe journey and see you soon.

Visit my site WWW.GFSD.BE

Do not hesitate to contact me at +32 (0)477 808 808  for any additional information.
You can also send me a message .